If you’ve ever found yourself repeatedly typing or saying “when it comes to” in your writing or conversations, you’re definitely not alone. It’s one of those phrases that slips in so often without us even realizing it, yet overusing it can make your language sound a bit dull or repetitive. Whether you’re drafting emails, reports, or giving a speech, relying too much on this expression can make your communication feel less impactful and less polished.
I totally get how frustrating it can be to search for a way to say the same thing but with a little more flair and professionalism. That’s why I’m excited to share 25 formal and compelling alternatives that can instantly upgrade your vocabulary. These choices are carefully selected to help you express ideas with clarity, precision, and style. Using them will make your writing or speaking not only more interesting but also more engaging and authoritative.
By mixing up your language, you’ll catch your readers’ or listeners’ attention and bring fresh energy to your sentences. Imagine how much more powerful your compliments, explanations, or descriptions will sound when you avoid repetitive phrasing. Plus, these alternatives are easy to incorporate, so you don’t have to struggle with awkward wording or complicated phrases.
Ready to enhance your communication skills and impress your audience with smart, varied expressions? Dive into the list below and find your new favorite ways to say “when it comes to” in formal settings. Trust me—you’ll wonder why you didn’t switch sooner!
Alternatives to “When It Comes to”
1. Regarding
Explanation:
“Regarding” is a straightforward, formal way to introduce a topic or subject. It’s commonly used in professional and academic writing to clearly specify what is being discussed without sounding casual or vague.
Examples:
- Regarding the new policy, we will have a meeting next Monday.
- I have some questions regarding the project deadline.
- The email regarding the schedule change was sent yesterday.
- Regarding your concerns, I will follow up with the team.
- We received your letter regarding the contract terms.
Why It Works:
“Regarding” works because it precisely signals the subject without adding unnecessary words, making your communication concise and clear.
2. Concerning
Explanation:
“Concerning” is a formal alternative that emphasizes the subject matter at hand, often used in official or serious contexts. It adds a slightly serious tone and is perfect for highlighting important details.
Examples:
- Concerning the budget, we need to allocate more resources.
- There have been discussions concerning the new regulations.
- Concerning your request, I will get back to you soon.
- We have some concerns concerning the data accuracy.
- Concerning the upcoming event, all preparations are underway.
Why It Works:
It draws attention to the topic in a focused way, which helps maintain a professional tone.
3. In Relation To
Explanation:
This phrase explicitly connects one topic to another, showing a direct relationship or comparison. It’s often used in formal writing when you want to show how two subjects are linked.
Examples:
- In relation to your previous inquiry, here is the detailed report.
- The changes were made in relation to customer feedback.
- In relation to the marketing plan, we have updated the budget.
- His comments were in relation to the recent survey results.
- The study in relation to climate change was published last month.
Why It Works:
It clarifies connections, making your statements more precise and structured.
4. With Respect To
Explanation:
This formal phrase is excellent for politely indicating the topic you’re addressing. It’s often found in legal, business, and academic contexts.
Examples:
- With respect to your application, we need further documentation.
- The manager spoke with respect to company policy updates.
- With respect to the project timeline, adjustments are necessary.
- The letter was written with respect to your complaint.
- Decisions were made with respect to the new guidelines.
Why It Works:
It conveys professionalism and respect while keeping your message clear and formal.
5. As Far As
Explanation:
“As far as” introduces a topic or scope but is a bit less formal, though still acceptable in many professional situations. It often signals a limitation or extent related to the subject.
Examples:
- As far as the report is concerned, it will be ready by Friday.
- I can help as far as the technical details go.
- As far as the budget allows, we will proceed with the project.
- The team is doing well as far as productivity is concerned.
- As far as customer feedback is concerned, the response has been positive.
Why It Works:
It helps define boundaries or limits within the discussion, adding clarity to your communication.
6. Pertaining To
Explanation:
“Pertaining to” is a formal phrase often used to specify that something relates directly to a particular subject or matter. It’s useful for legal, academic, or detailed professional writing.
Examples:
- Documents pertaining to the case were submitted yesterday.
- The instructions pertaining to the software update are in the manual.
- Pertaining to your inquiry, I have attached the requested files.
- Guidelines pertaining to employee conduct have been updated.
- Emails pertaining to the contract will be archived.
Why It Works:
It sounds formal and authoritative, clearly linking information to a subject.
7. In Terms Of
Explanation:
“In terms of” is a versatile phrase that frames the discussion based on a specific aspect or perspective. It works well when focusing on particular elements of a larger topic.
Examples:
- In terms of quality, this product outperforms others.
- The company is strong in terms of customer satisfaction.
- In terms of time management, we need to improve.
- The project succeeded in terms of budget control.
- In terms of sales, last quarter was very successful.
Why It Works:
It allows you to zoom in on specific criteria, making your points clearer and more focused.
8. In Connection With
Explanation:
This phrase suggests a direct link or association between the subject and another factor, often used in formal or investigative contexts.
Examples:
- The police are investigating in connection with the incident.
- We held a meeting in connection with the merger.
- In connection with your request, additional details are needed.
- Documents were submitted in connection with the audit.
- In connection with the complaint, an inquiry was launched.
Why It Works:
It emphasizes a relationship or link, useful for clear and professional statements.
9. As Regards
Explanation:
“As regards” is a polite and formal way to introduce a topic, similar to “regarding” or “concerning.” It’s common in business correspondence.
Examples:
- As regards the new proposal, I have some suggestions.
- We received feedback as regards the service quality.
- As regards your last email, I will respond shortly.
- The report as regards the financial status is complete.
- As regards future plans, the company is optimistic.
Why It Works:
It adds a formal tone and shows attention to the specific subject mentioned.
10. On the Subject Of
Explanation:
This phrase directly points to the topic being discussed, useful for formal writing or speeches to clarify what’s under consideration.
Examples:
- On the subject of safety, we must follow all protocols.
- The seminar focused on the subject of innovation.
- On the subject of funding, the board had several questions.
- I would like to speak on the subject of employee benefits.
- On the subject of deadlines, the team is making progress.
Why It Works:
It explicitly flags the topic, making your communication straightforward and organized.
11. In the Matter Of
Explanation:
“In the matter of” is a formal phrase often used in legal, official, or formal documents to introduce the subject under consideration. It adds a sense of seriousness and formality to the topic.
Examples:
- In the matter of the recent dispute, both parties agreed to mediation.
- The committee will review the documents in the matter of the contract.
- In the matter of employee grievances, the HR department is involved.
- The court case in the matter of property rights continues next week.
- In the matter of environmental compliance, new regulations apply.
Why It Works:
This phrase works because it signals a formal and official focus on a particular issue, creating a tone of authority and importance.
See Also: Other Ways to Say “Work Environment”
12. Relative To
Explanation:
“Relative to” is a precise way to compare or relate one thing to another. It’s often used in data analysis, formal reports, or detailed discussions.
Examples:
- The company’s profits increased relative to last year’s figures.
- Relative to other departments, sales have improved significantly.
- The cost of raw materials is high relative to the budget.
- Relative to demand, production needs to be scaled up.
- Employee satisfaction is strong relative to industry standards.
Why It Works:
It clearly expresses relationships and comparisons, making your points more analytical and professional.
13. Apropos Of
Explanation:
“Apropos of” is a formal and somewhat literary phrase meaning “with reference to” or “concerning.” It adds a refined touch to your writing or speech.
Examples:
- Apropos of your earlier question, here are some additional details.
- The discussion was apropos of recent market trends.
- Apropos of the meeting, all members must submit their reports.
- She made a comment apropos of the new policy changes.
- Apropos of safety, the procedures were strictly followed.
Why It Works:
This phrase is elegant and formal, ideal for sophisticated or thoughtful communication.
14. Touching On
Explanation:
“Touching on” is a softer way to introduce a topic, suggesting a brief or indirect mention. It’s less formal but still works well in semi-formal contexts.
Examples:
- The presentation touched on several important issues.
- He was touching on the subject of teamwork during his speech.
- The report briefly touched on customer satisfaction metrics.
- In the meeting, we touched on future business strategies.
- The article is touching on environmental concerns.
Why It Works:
It’s useful for gently introducing topics without making them the main focus, which adds flexibility to your tone.
15. With Reference To
Explanation:
This phrase is very formal and commonly used in business, academic, and legal writing to specify the topic you are addressing.
Examples:
- With reference to your application, we require further documentation.
- The email was sent with reference to the upcoming conference.
- With reference to the recent audit, corrective actions are planned.
- Please see the attached file with reference to your inquiry.
- With reference to project timelines, adjustments have been made.
Why It Works:
It’s clear and polite, making your communication respectful and professional.
16. In the Context Of
Explanation:
“In the context of” helps to frame information by situating it within a particular situation or background, which adds depth and clarity.
Examples:
- In the context of global warming, these findings are significant.
- The decision makes more sense in the context of budget cuts.
- In the context of the pandemic, remote work became essential.
- This study should be seen in the context of recent scientific advances.
- In the context of cultural differences, communication can be challenging.
Why It Works:
This phrase helps readers or listeners understand the bigger picture surrounding a topic.
17. In Consideration Of
Explanation:
“In consideration of” is a formal phrase often used to indicate that something has been carefully thought about before making a decision or statement.
Examples:
- In consideration of your request, we have extended the deadline.
- The proposal was accepted in consideration of budget limitations.
- In consideration of recent events, the policy was revised.
- We offer our thanks in consideration of your support.
- In consideration of employee feedback, changes were implemented.
Why It Works:
It conveys thoughtfulness and respect for the factors involved, enhancing the tone of professionalism.
18. In View Of
Explanation:
“In view of” means “because of” or “considering,” and it’s used to explain reasons or justifications formally.
Examples:
- In view of the weather forecast, the event has been postponed.
- The company made changes in view of customer complaints.
- In view of recent developments, the strategy was adjusted.
- We decided to increase funding in view of the project’s importance.
- In view of budget constraints, we must prioritize tasks.
Why It Works:
It connects cause and effect clearly and formally, making your reasoning sound logical and deliberate.
19. With Regard To
Explanation:
Similar to “with respect to,” this phrase introduces a topic with formality and clarity, widely used in professional contexts.
Examples:
- With regard to your concerns, we have taken immediate action.
- The report with regard to market trends will be published soon.
- With regard to employee safety, new protocols are in place.
- The manager spoke with regard to company performance.
- With regard to your question, I will provide further information.
Why It Works:
It signals attention and care towards the topic, fostering clear and polite communication.
20. As It Pertains To
Explanation:
“As it pertains to” is a slightly more formal and detailed alternative that emphasizes relevance to the topic.
Examples:
- As it pertains to the project deadline, we are on track.
- The guidelines, as they pertain to employee conduct, have been updated.
- As it pertains to budget approval, the finance team is responsible.
- As it pertains to customer service, quality is our top priority.
- The memo covers important points as they pertain to the new policy.
Why It Works:
This phrase clarifies the connection and relevance of information, adding precision to your message.
21. In Association With
Explanation:
“In association with” shows collaboration or connection between people, organizations, or topics in formal writing.
Examples:
- The event was organized in association with local businesses.
- The report was prepared in association with several departments.
- In association with the charity, the company launched a fundraiser.
- The study was conducted in association with leading researchers.
- In association with your feedback, improvements were made.
Why It Works:
It highlights partnerships or links clearly and professionally.
22. In Connection To
Explanation:
This is similar to “in connection with,” signaling a relationship or link between subjects.
Examples:
- The investigation is ongoing in connection to the security breach.
- Documents were submitted in connection to the lawsuit.
- In connection to your request, we need additional information.
- The audit was conducted in connection to financial irregularities.
- Meetings were held in connection to the new project.
Why It Works:
It formally emphasizes relationships, making your message structured and clear.
23. In Light Of
Explanation:
“In light of” means “considering” or “because of,” often used to indicate new information or circumstances affecting decisions.
Examples:
- In light of recent feedback, the policy was revised.
- The deadline was extended in light of unforeseen delays.
- In light of the new regulations, compliance measures are necessary.
- The company changed its strategy in light of market trends.
- In light of budget cuts, some projects were postponed.
Why It Works:
It’s a strong formal phrase that connects actions or decisions to changing conditions clearly.
24. When Addressing
Explanation:
“When addressing” is a formal phrase used to introduce the topic being spoken or written about, emphasizing the act of communication.
Examples:
- When addressing customer concerns, it’s important to be empathetic.
- The CEO spoke clearly when addressing the company’s challenges.
- When addressing safety protocols, employees must be trained thoroughly.
- When addressing the board, focus on key performance indicators.
- When addressing the issue, transparency is essential.
Why It Works:
It focuses on the communication act itself, making your writing purposeful and direct.
25. On the Topic Of
Explanation:
This phrase is formal and clear, explicitly pointing to the subject matter of discussion or writing.
Examples:
- On the topic of sustainability, the company has set ambitious goals.
- The lecture on the topic of innovation was well-received.
- On the topic of employee benefits, a new policy was introduced.
- We had a long discussion on the topic of market expansion.
- On the topic of data privacy, regulations are becoming stricter.
Why It Works:
It plainly identifies the subject, ensuring your message is focused and easy to follow.
Conclusion
Using a variety of these formal expressions instead of repeating “when it comes to” will make your communication sharper, more professional, and more engaging. Each phrase carries its own nuance and tone, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your context.
Don’t hesitate to practice these alternatives in your next email, report, or presentation — you’ll find your language becoming more precise and your ideas more compelling. Ready to stand out with your words? Start experimenting today and watch your writing and speaking skills soar!
I’m Leo Knox, the wordplay wizard behind WordsTwists.com where I turn everyday meanings into funny, clever, and creative twists. If you’re tired of saying things the boring way, I’ve got a better (and funnier) one for you!
